it absolutely is considered tourism. But you must have the means to support yourself. Which is a very low bar. You can fear it all you want but no worries for me at all
you are unfortunately using both old AND bad information. Changed in 2024.
There is no limit whatsoever on entries by air. Never was. There is now (since 2024) also no limit on land entry. Two was the previous limit. No crackdown. Simply more internet. And more people here learning the hard way. The millions who come in with no issues whatsoever don’t write a long story about it.
You ALWAYS LOSE on exchange rate. How is it even possible someone doesn’t grasp this. You must be absolutely daft.
When you see the posted exchange rate, that is what is referred to as the mid market rate. It’s what banks, nations, and money transfer services get when exchanging amongst each other.
However, as a lowly retail money exchanger, you will never get this rate. Whomever you are executing the exchange with will also keep their share. Often 2-5% or even worse depending on your currency and its desirability in your locations. Banks will always take a cut. So will any exchanges. And that… is the amount you LOSE